Colombia Calling - The English Voice in Colombia 556: The Colombia that is Silenced
Feb 25, 2025
Lorena Estupiñán-Pedraza, a political science professor from Boyacá, discusses the unique cultural identity of her region. She dives into the effects of historical challenges on Boyacans, addressing political disillusionment and agricultural protests. Lorena highlights the resilience of indigenous communities against colonial legacies and emphasizes the significance of Boyacá’s cycling culture in fostering local pride. Through her insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant area and its impact on Colombia's broader narrative.
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Russian Mayor of Tunja
- Tunja's mayor is Russian, which is unusual for Boyacá, a region with minimal immigration.
- He won by positioning himself as a political outsider but later appointed establishment figures to his administration.
Boyacá's Poverty
- Boyacá is one of Colombia's poorest departments despite its proximity to Bogotá and abundant resources.
- This poverty is partly due to lack of infrastructure, political representation, and opportunities.
2015 Agrarian Strike
- The 2015 Paro Agrario, an agricultural strike, highlighted Boyacá's invisibility when President Santos denied its existence.
- This denial, despite food shortages in Bogotá, was a wake-up call for Boyacenses to become more vocal.
